Warminster barracks opens its doors for families to meet troops

Battlebury Barracks, Warminster, opened its gates to the community for a family fun day.

The home of the First Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment put on a cricket tournament, displays of military vehicles, bouncy castles, face-painting, hair-braiding and a raffle.

For the children there was the opportunity to fire real weapons at targets using a laser training system and an inflatable obstacle course.

They could also try a paintball firing range and families could tour the camp on a pony and trap.

Lieutenant Colonel Andy Garner, Commanding Officer, said: “It is really important to maintain strong links with the community particularly as we intend to stay for many more years.”

The Honorary Colours of the Yorkshire Regiment were paraded alongside the Regulation Colours, the first time this has happened since they were returned from Cyprus where they had been held by their sister Second Battalion over the course of the last year.

The Battalion’s Corps of Drums also put on a display of military music.